The Next Step Foundation is a non-partisan
not-for-profit organisation that promotes of diversity and leadership
issues in the United Kingdom.
The mission of the Foundation is to ensure that we
keep diversity at the top of Britain’s agenda by encouraging
action and stimulating discussion at the highest levels of the public
and private sectors. We hold regular conferences, workshops and
seminars, and run the groundbreaking Next Step Mentoring Scheme.
With over 8% of the population of ethnic origin,
the UK is one of the most diverse countries in the world and has an
impressive record on diversity and social cohesion issues. However, we
cannot afford to be complacent. Recent reports have shown that
individuals from ethnic minority communities are still failing to be
adequately represented at the highest levels.
If we are to live in a truly multicultural society
this needs to be addressed, because an authentically diverse
environment must recognise and nurture the talents of all people within
our community.
The Next Step Foundation targets the root and
branch causes of this. We focus on the one hand on changing practices
and attitudes within the organisations themselves by engaging Chief
Executives and senior figures in major organisations in productive
dialogue to gain tangible results.
The Foundation’s second target is members of
ethnic minority communities. We promote the need for community leaders
to act as role models and to lead the way in breaking down barriers,
giving advice and assistance to their community. We also offer
practical and inspirational encouragement to younger generations in
recognition of the fact that they are the ones who will drive change in
the future.
